Oman, having lost their opener 2-1 to Tajikistan, had to win and they did just that as they moved into second, a point behind leaders DPR Korea, who they meet on Friday.

“I told myself before the match that I would score two goals today, and this is exactly what I achieved,” said Al Amrani. “But more importantly, I contributed to my team's victory.”

Oman came from behind twice, cancelling out Iran’s 40th and 54th minute strikes with their own in the 53rd and 74th minutes before Al Amrani hit home the winner in the 89th minute.

The Al Ain FC player credited their turnaround to head coach's Anwar Al Habsi’s halftime talk.

“He really motivated us, and this had a huge impact on our second-half performance.”

Al Habsi said Oman will face DPR Korea with confidence.

“The players were afraid we were about to leave the competition, and this is why they gave it everything they had in the second half,” he said.  

“Our victory also relieved the pressure the players felt coming into the match, and they now have all the encouragement they need to take another three points.” 

Iran head coach Abbas Chamanian, whose side now sit at the bottom with one point, said lack of concentration cost them. 

“We didn't focus during the last 15 minutes,” he said. “I told the players that leading by one goal was not enough, and if they didn't score more it would be difficult for us. There were many chances in the first half that we did not take. Oman, however, made good use of theirs in the second.”

Iran have to defeat Tajikistan on Friday to stand a chance of advancing.